Kure Beach is rich in history and coastal character. From its hidden history to one of the oldest fishing piers on the East Coast, this seaside town has fascinating facts tucked into its story. Here are five surprising things you may not know about Kure Beach.
1. Fort Fisher, well known for its role in the Civil War, played a key part in World War II, as well.
Kure Beach is rich in history and coastal character. From its hidden history to one of the oldest fishing piers on the East Coast, this seaside town has fascinating facts tucked into its story. Here are five surprising things you may not know about Kure Beach.
During World War II, Fort Fisher was reactivated by the U.S. Army as a remote training ground for anti-aircraft gunnery and automatic weapons. National defense took precedence over historical preservation, leading to significant changes on the site. Bunkers were dug, and a large airstrip was constructed, destroying a sizable portion of the original earthworks. Today, one of the WWII-era bunkers is still visible along the scenic Basin Trail at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. This bunker was once home to the legendary Fort Fisher Hermit, Robert Harrill, who lived off the land from 1955 through 1972. The site’s earthworks are being reconstructed as a part of ongoing expansions and upgrades.
Artifacts and exhibits detailing Fort Fisher's involvement in both wars and diverse perspectives on life during those periods are on display at the newly renovated Fort Fisher State Historic Site Visitors Center.
2. Kure Beach is home to a rare rock formation.
One of the most surprising natural features in Kure Beach is the coquina rock formation, the only naturally occurring rocky outcrop along North Carolina’s coast. Visible only at low tide, this unique terrain – made of compacted coral and shell fragments – dates back more than 12,000 years. To catch a glimpse of this geological wonder, head to the shoreline near the Ocean Dunes Condos just before you reach Fort Fisher. The moss-covered rock outcrop is also home to a variety of marine life, including sea stars, hermit crabs and conchs.
3. The pronunciation of Kure (“CURE-ee”) pays homage to the town’s namesake – a Danish sea captain.
The pronunciation of Kure Beach can be tricky, but the name actually honors Hans Kure, a Danish sea captain who settled in nearby Wilmington in the 1880s after retiring from maritime life. In 1913, Kure purchased a large parcel of land spanning from the ocean to the river. The area, developed by the Kure Land and Development Company, was originally called Fort Fisher Sea Beach and later became known as Kure Beach.
A major milestone came in 1916 with the construction of a road, now known as Dow Road, that connected Wilmington directly to the beach. It was the first highway in North Carolina to lead straight to the ocean.
Kure Beach was officially incorporated in 1947, with Lawrence Kure serving as the town’s first mayor. This marked the transformation of the area from a family venture into a thriving seaside community.
4. It is home to one of the oldest fishing piers on the East Coast.
In 1923, L.C. Kure, the son of Hans Kure, built the Kure Beach Fishing Pier, one of the first fishing piers on the Atlantic Coast. He harvested pine trees from the nearby river area to use as pilings for the original wooden structure. Over the years, the pier has weathered countless storms, being rebuilt multiple times. It now stretches 711 feet into the ocean, remaining as a cherished landmark and one of the oldest fishing piers on the East Coast.
Visitors can stop by the seasonal bait shop and store for fishing gear, souvenirs and concessions. No fishing license is required, so anyone can cast a line. For those simply seeking scenic ocean views, the pier is open year-round and free to walk.
Centrally located in the heart of Kure Beach, the pier is just steps from several popular attractions. Ocean Front Park & Pavilion, Kure Beach’s largest public green space, is nearby and features a playground and porch swings overlooking the ocean.
Just across from the pier entrance, you’ll find vibrant storefronts housing some of Kure Beach’s favorite restaurants, including Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill, Happy Hippies Java Hut, Freddie’s Restaurant and Ocean View Restaurant. Also located near the base of the pier is the Hi-Tech Arcade, which offers classic games like basketball toss, skeeball, Colorama, Frog Hop and more.
5. The area that is now Zeke’s Island Reserve was once home to a turpentine factory.
South of Fort Fisher lies Zeke’s Island Reserve, an important shorebird habitat accessible only by kayak, canoe, boat or SUP. This dynamic ecosystem features tidal flats, salt marshes, dunes and ocean beaches. In the 1880s, a rock revetment, or retaining wall, was installed, creating the lagoon-like estuary complex. Altogether, the reserve now encompasses more than 200 acres of uplands and 1,400 acres of estuarine habitats.
Before becoming a protected habitat, the area was home to a turpentine factory, a gill net fishing center and a terrapin hatchery. In 1980, the land was donated, and in 1985, it was designated as a component of the North Carolina National Estuarine Research Reserve.
Today, Zeke’s Island Reserve serves as a coastal classroom for its unique ecosystems. Local outfitters such as Kayak Carolina offer guided eco-tours for paddlers of all skill levels that are available during the day or at sunrise. A variety of native plants, including sea pickle and salt grass, grow on the island and are ideal for foraging. Nearby chefs even source some of these plants for use in their dishes.
With a legacy that stretches from the Civil War to WWII and beyond, there’s more to Kure Beach than meets the eye. Uncover something new during your next visit!
